Mr. Willis Eugene Barnes, better known as Gene, age 82, of Winfield, passed away Saturday, December 13, 2025, at his residence. He was born on May 2, 1943, to Jacob Leroy and Ora Mae McKay Barnes. Mr. Barnes was a faithful member of Bethel Freewill Baptist Church and a 1961 graduate of Brilliant High School. He proudly served his country for four years in the United States Air Force, followed by 20 years of service in the166th Engineer Company of the Alabama Army National Guard.

Mr. Barnes was an active and dedicated member of Brilliant Masonic Lodge #601, where he enjoyed helping with fundraisers and participating in lodge activities. He was employed by 3M Manufacturing for 35 years before retiring. In his earlier years, he found great joy in growing vegetable gardens and working in the hayfield when he was not on the job. In later years, he enjoyed helping others, doing outdoor projects and attending his grandchildren’s activities, which brought him much happiness.

He is survived by his son, Chris Barnes (Kaleena); daughter, Stephanie House (Emerson); grandchildren, Jacob Barnes and Macie Barnes; step granddaughter, Madalyn Moore; brother, Wiley Barnes (Maxine); sister-in-law, Shelby Barnes; brother-in-law, Gary Rose; and a host of nieces, nephews, and other family members.

He was preceded in death by his ex-wife, Nancy Barnes; his parents, Leroy and Ora Mae Barnes; brothers, James, Jessie, Sam, Floyd, and Boyd Barnes; and sisters, Lounell Cagle, Ruth Tittle, Dorothy Elliott, Joyce Ann Rose, Judy Gulley, Allean Guin, Nelda Sue Barnes, and Betty Jo Willett.

Funeral services for Mr. Barnes will be held on Sunday, December 21, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. from the Bowen Funeral Home Chapel, with burial to follow in Taylor Springs Cemetery in Lamar County. Visitation will be held on Sunday from 12:00 noon until 2:00 p.m. at the funeral home.

Bowen funeral Home of Winfield, AL serving the Barnes family.